S’il ne devait en rester qu’une, ce serait sans doute celle-là. La New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 s’impose comme un véritable couteau suisse dans le monde exigeant des chaussures de running. Avec cette cinquième itération de son modèle d’entraînement, New Balance propose une chaussure rapide, polyvalente et surtout fun. Sans plaque carbone mais avec plus de mousse sous le pied, la Rebel v5 réussit l’équilibre parfait entre dynamisme, confort et accessibilité pour courir au quotidien. De quoi séduire un très large éventail de coureurs, du débutant au runner expérimenté. © New Balance

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5: The Ideal Training Shoe?

EquipmentShoes
08/07/2025 18:56

If you could only pick one running shoe, this might just be the one. The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 stands out as a true Swiss Army knife in today’s highly competitive running shoe market. In this fifth generation of the Rebel, New Balance delivers a shoe that’s fast, versatile, and—most of all—fun to run in.
There’s no carbon plate here, but with added cushioning underfoot, the Rebel v5 strikes a near-perfect balance between energy return, comfort, and daily usability—a combination that makes it appealing to a wide range of runners, from beginners to seasoned athletes.


At a time when many running shoes are pushing higher stack heights and stiff carbon plates, the Rebel series remains refreshingly different. With a flexible midsole and no plate, it’s become a favorite among runners who want a light, nimble ride. Some use it as a lightweight daily trainer, others even race in it—its versatility is what makes it shine. You could think of it as the little sibling of the FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5, New Balance’s premium race model.

True to its DNA, the Rebel v5 has a bold, athletic aesthetic. With sculpted lines and striking colorways, this shoe blends performance with a touch of lifestyle flair—classic New Balance.

| Bold Design, Remarkable Lightness

True to its DNA, the Rebel v5 has a bold, athletic aesthetic. With sculpted lines and striking colorways, this shoe blends performance with a touch of lifestyle flair—classic New Balance.

Beyond looks, it delivers real substance:
A redesigned FantomFit upper that’s breathable and structured
An improved tongue that stays put
The upper offers a secure, sock-like fit without compromising weight: just 7.9 oz (225 g) in Men’s US 10.5 / EU 44, and 6.3 oz (180 g) in Women’s US 8.5 / EU 40.

| More Stack, More Comfort—Still No Carbon

The most notable upgrade in the v5 is the added 5 mm of foam underfoot compared to its predecessor—now with a stack height of 35 mm in the heel and 29 mm in the forefoot, and a 6 mm drop. It still feels fast and agile, but now with more plushness and forgiveness underfoot.

The midsole combines PEBA and EVA foams, creating a ride that’s both smooth and natural, yet snappy enough for intervals and tempo runs. No carbon plate? No problem. In fact, its plate-free flexibility makes it perfect for everyday miles.

“The FuelCell Rebel v5 is the kind of shoe that makes you want to get out and run.
Born to break the mold, it features a bold design and a modern edge that stands out.
Lightweight and impressively flexible, its reactive midsole delivers energetic bounce along with the versatility to handle all types of runs.”

New Balance

| A Do-It-All Trainer, From Easy Runs to Speed Work

The Rebel v5 sets a high bar. In an era where many runners rotate between 3–4 pairs, this model impresses with its one-shoe-does-it-all capability. It handles easy mileage just as well as it delivers the responsiveness needed for tempo runs or VO2 max intervals.

It may feel a little softer and more stable than the v4, but the trade-off is increased comfort and durability—perfect for those looking for a single pair that covers all bases.

| Outstanding Value

At just $140 USD, the FuelCell Rebel v5 is one of the best-value training shoes on the market in 2025. You get premium PEBA foam, solid construction, a responsive ride, and long-distance comfort—all at a price point that undercuts many competitors. For daily training, it’s hard to beat.

| Who Is the Rebel v5 For?

Whether you’re a seasoned runner looking for a fast, low-profile shoe for quality sessions, or a recreational athlete who wants something light, lively, and comfortable, the FuelCell Rebel v5 checks every box.

Its lightweight build, flexibility, and plush feel make it a smart choice—the kind of shoe you’ll pack as your only pair on a summer trip.

It’s also a great pick for runners who don’t want to race in carbon-plated shoes. Light, reactive, and comfortable, it’s more than capable of handling moderate to brisk paces, even in competition.

  • Recommended Use: Speed work (tempo, threshold, VO2 max), daily runs
  • Price: $140 USD
  • Weight: Men – 7.9 oz (225 g) / Women – 6.3 oz (180 g)
  • Drop: 6 mm (35 mm heel / 29 mm forefoot)
  • Midsole: PEBA + EVA foam
  • Plate: None (no carbon plate)
  • Upper: FantomFit engineered mesh – lightweight, breathable, structured
  • Gait Type: Neutral

The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 manages to deliver premium performance without relying on carbon tech, offering a refreshing, fun, and well-rounded ride. If you’re only bringing one pair with you this summer—make it this one.

Available on New Balance’s website.


Clément LABORIEUX
Journaliste

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